The project management cold plunge 🥶

November 2023

During the summer of 2021, as the world slowly emerged out of Covid lockdowns, I felt the need to invest in both my mental and physical health. Around the time, cold water swimming really started gaining popularity in Ireland. Coincidence? I don’t think so…

A sub-culture of likeminded people emerged, all united by the same goal, all looking for the same reported health benefits. All motivated to celebrate life and grateful to have made it through a tough global pandemic. People started taking the plunge, and over a short space of time, the popular swim spots around Ireland became places of social gathering where strangers connected, and where people (young and old) become a community through mutual connection and friendly smiles.

As you can imagine, my initial worry (and limiting belief) was my fear of hypothermia. As a risk averse project manager, you might appreciate my pragmatic approach to the hazards posed by freezing water. I wanted to understand, not only the risks involved, but also what my body was capable of enduring. Luckily, those fears were quickly allayed after speaking with a cold-water aficionado who taught me a valuable rule of thumb. If you know the water temperature, which generally varies between 6 and 16 degrees Celsius in Ireland (depending on the time of year), you can safely endure the cold for a minute per degree Celsius above zero. In other words, if the water is 10 degrees cold, you can stay in for 10 minutes without too much trouble.

What are the benefits? Well apart from boosting my self esteem, I find that it decreases stress and inflammation. It requires self-discipline, mindfulness, and a focus on your breathing composure, all which leads to a tremendous post swim high. What’s the best way I can describe it? In short, it’s like hitting the reset button of my central nervous system! A remarkable outcome for a 10-minute activity.

In project management terms, the Covid pandemic was referred to as a black swan event. A metaphor that describes an event that comes as a surprise, has a major effect, and is often inappropriately rationalised after the fact (with the benefit of hindsight). Well how do projects recover from the unexpected? When that unexpected event materialises and scuppers your well laid plans?

In project management terms, taking the cold plunge is about hitting the reset button. Take stock of what’s happened. Analyse the risks, document it, and then re-baseline your project dashboard. Come up for air after the plunge, breath, don’t panic, communicate with those around you, and re-focus on your original goals. If necessary, repeat the process until you find a workable solution. Just like with taking a cold plunge, resetting your project goals after a setback, can reinvigorate you and fill you with a new sense of purpose. Try it! It works!

Disclaimer: Always take precaution when swimming in open water (sea and lakes). Consult your doctor. Never swim alone. Never swim if you are unsure of the sea conditions. Don’t drive or jump in if you are unsure of what lays beneath the water surface. If you are a newbie, opt for swim spots where there are lifeguards, and always have a swim buddy. Always know the water temperature and time yourself. If you go to the popular swimming spots, ask a seasoned pro (you’ll notice them straight away 😊) for advice and support. You’ll be amazed by the generosity and the level of care within the community. For more information visit: https://watersafety.ie/